Solfate Podcast - Interviews with blockchain founders/builders on Solana Nick and James

A conversation with Vlad Toni, the founder of AllDomains, a web3 domain platform on Solana.
PS: Checkout the Snapshot newsletter: a byte-sized email newsletter filled with the biggest updates from Solana ecosystem teams and builders. ~5 minute read. Every 2 weeks. 👉 https://solfate.com/snapshot
Summary
This conversation delves into All Domains' shift from developing social primitives on Solana to tokenizing web2 domains, exploring the benefits and potential of Solana in domain tokenization. Vlad shares insights from his journey into Solana, emphasizing the importance of long-term vision in the crypto space and the role of community support. The discussion also touches on the challenges of building the product and concludes with future plans, including the unique offering of emoji domains.
Takeaways
All Domains started as a project focused on social primitives but pivoted to tokenizing web2 domains on Solana.Solana's vibrant and noisy ecosystem makes it an ideal blockchain for building domains and identities.Tokenizing web2 domains on Solana allows for instant domain transfers and trading, providing a more efficient and cost-effective solution compared to traditional domain registration.The future of domains in Web3 includes making them visitable in browsers and exploring security features that leverage on-chain resolution. Having a clear goal and long-term vision is crucial in the fast-paced crypto space.Support and encouragement from the community can make a significant difference in the success of a project.Overcoming challenges and persisting through difficult times is essential for building a successful product.Exploring unique offerings, such as emoji domains, can provide new opportunities in the blockchain space.Find Vlad and AllDomains online
Follow Vlad on twitter - @vladtoniFollow AllDomains on twitter - @AllDomains_Checkout the AllDomains website - AllDomains.idFollow us around

Nick
twitter: @nickfrostygithub: github.com/nickfrostywebsite: https://nick.afJames
twitter: @jamesrp13github: github.com/jamesrp13Solfate Podcast
twitter: @SolfatePodmore podcast episodes: solfate.com/podcast

A conversation with John Ennis, the founder of NeoSwap, a multi-way trading platform where everyone wins.
PS: Checkout the Snapshot newsletter: a byte-sized email newsletter filled with the biggest updates from Solana ecosystem teams and builders. ~5 minute read. Every 2 weeks. 👉 https://solfate.com/snapshot
Summary
NeoSwap is a platform that aims to make assets spendable and provide purchasing power from assets. The idea of multi-way trading, where complex transactions involving assets and money can be facilitated, is at the core of NeoSwap.
The founder, John Ennis, has a background in mathematics, AI, and market research, which led him to develop the NeoSwap algorithm. The algorithm uses solvers and prediction models to optimize trades and maximize utility for all parties involved. NeoSwap has developed products like smart auctions and starter pack finders for gaming (including for StarAtlas), which have shown promising results in improving efficiency and trade volume.
The NeoSwap platform is blockchain-agnostic but has found more success on chains with denser data and on-chain commitments. The conversation explores the choice of Solana as a platform, the promise and durability of Bitcoin, the differences between Solana and Bitcoin cultures, the two-sided war between Ethereum and Bitcoin, and the value of inscriptions on Bitcoin. It also discusses the dangers of fiat currency, the importance of commerce and value exchange, and the vision of NeoSwap for decentralized commerce.
Takeaways
Solana offers advantages in terms of speed, low gas fees, and an active community, making it an attractive platform for projects.Bitcoin provides an alternative to fiat currency and offers durability, but its tooling and performance are not as advanced as Solana.The culture in Solana is more focused on efficiency and winning in the startup world, while Bitcoin attracts more ideologically motivated individuals.Inscriptions on Bitcoin provide a new use case and can ensure the blockchain's value even after the block reward goes away.The vision of NeoSwap is to create a decentralized commerce platform that allows for value exchange and matchmaking without the need for centralized control.Find John and NeoSwap online
Follow John on twitter - @john_ennis_btcFollow NeoSwap on twitter - @neoswap_aiCheckout the NeoSwap website - NeoSwap.xyzFollow us around

Nick
twitter: @nickfrostygithub: github.com/nickfrostywebsite: https://nick.afJames
twitter: @jamesrp13github: github.com/jamesrp13Solfate Podcast
twitter: @SolfatePodmore podcast episodes: solfate.com/podcast

A conversation with Thorsten, the creator of Luzid, a Solana test validator at light speed.
PS: Checkout the Snapshot newsletter: a byte-sized email newsletter filled with the biggest updates from Solana ecosystem teams and builders. ~5 minute read. Every 2 weeks. 👉 https://solfate.com/snapshot
Summary
Thorsten, the creator of the Luzid validator, joins James in our first in person episode. Thorsten shares his unique journey getting into software development and into Solana, starting as a jazz musician, then a poker player, then writing poker bots and diving into more development. Including building some of the most popular developer tooling at Metaplex.
The conversation explores the features and capabilities of Luzid, a tool for testing Solana programs. James and Thorsten discuss the setup process and navigate through the Luzid.app, exploring transactions, accounts, and snapshots. They also discuss the ability to undo actions and perform regression testing.
Thorsten touches on the future plans for Luzid, including the business model and collaboration with MagicBlock. The hosts conclude by providing information on the public release of Luzid and expressing excitement for its potential. This conversation explores the concept of emotional intelligence and its importance in various aspects of life. It discusses the definition of emotional intelligence, its components, and how to develop it. The conversation also highlights the role of emotional intelligence in leadership and relationships.
Find Thorsten and Luzid online
Follow Thorsten on twitter - @thlorenzCheckout the Luzid website - Luzid.appFollow us around

Nick
twitter: @nickfrostygithub: github.com/nickfrostywebsite: https://nick.afJames
twitter: @jamesrp13github: github.com/jamesrp13Solfate Podcast
twitter: @SolfatePodmore podcast episodes: solfate.com/podcast

A conversation with Andriy, the founder of AllBridge, a cross-chain bridging protocol that uses stable coins.
PS: Checkout the Snapshot newsletter: a byte-sized email newsletter filled with the biggest updates from Solana ecosystem teams and builders. ~5 minute read. Every 2 weeks. 👉 https://solfate.com/snapshot

Full show notes: solfate.com/podcast/49
Follow the @SolfatePod show on Twitter for updates. Thanks for listening frens :)
Notes from the show
Andriy, the co-founder of AllBridge, discusses his background and transition into the crypto space. He shares the early days of AllBridge and its role in bridging stable coin assets between different chains, particularly on Solana. He explains the architecture of AllBridge and the transition from the common “mint and burn” model to the current liquidity pools. 

Andriy also discusses the future plans for AllBridge, including the potential introduction of governance and partnerships with other protocols. He provides insights into the user flow and technical process of bridging, as well as the returns and risks associated with liquidity pools. Lastly, he talks about the integration with Phantom and the role of bridge aggregators in the ecosystem. 

The conversation with Andriy from AllBridge focused on the importance of collaboration over competition in the blockchain industry. Andriy emphasized the need to work together with other companies to provide better solutions for users. He shared an example of how AllBridge partnered with Wormhole to offer a more convenient cross-chain solution. Additionally, Andriy discussed the potential for B2B solutions in the future, where protocols can leverage AllBridge’s infrastructure for liquidity transfers. He also highlighted the importance of informed decision-making and transparency in the crypto ecosystem.
Takeaways
AllBridge is a bridge protocol that facilitates the transfer of assets between different chains, with a focus on stable coins.The architecture of AllBridge has evolved from mint and burn models to liquidity pools, which provide a more efficient and user-friendly experience.The returns and risks associated with liquidity pools depend on factors such as the amount of liquidity in the pool and the volume of transactions.Allbridge is actively exploring partnerships and integrations with other protocols, and there are plans to introduce governance mechanisms in the future.The integration with Phantom and the use of a bridge aggregator like Li-Fi have expanded the accessibility and options for users. Collaboration with competitors can lead to better solutions for users.B2B solutions for cross-chain protocols could be the future of bridges.Informed decision-making is crucial when participating in liquidity pools.Transparency and openness are essential for building trust in the crypto ecosystem.Find Andriy and AllBridge online
Follow Andriy on twitter - @avelykyyCheckout the AllBridge website - allbridge.io
Follow us around

Nick
twitter: @nickfrostygithub: github.com/nickfrostywebsite: https://nick.afJames
twitter: @jamesrp13github: github.com/jamesrp13Solfate Podcast
twitter: @SolfatePodmore podcast episodes: solfate.com/podcast

A conversation with Matty, the co-founder of Colosseum and former Head of Growth at the Solana Foundation.

Full show notes: solfate.com/podcast/48
PS: Checkout the Snapshot newsletter: a byte-sized email newsletter filled with the biggest updates from Solana ecosystem teams and builders. ~5 minute read. Every 2 weeks. 👉 https://solfate.com/snapshot
Notes from the show
In this conversation, Nick and Matty discuss the Solana Global Hackathons and the launch of Colosseum. Matty shares his background in crypto and how he got involved with the Solana ecosystem, starting at Solana Labs and then to Solana Foundation.

They explore the unique structure of the Solana Global Hackathons, which focus on driving long-term sustainable startups in the ecosystem. Matty explains the decision to leave the Solana Foundation and start Colosseum as an independent organization to build a product specifically catered to running hackathons.

Nick and Matty Tay discuss the Colosseum accelerator program and venture fund, which invests in the top teams from the hackathons. Matty covers the terms and requirements for Colosseum funding, including the 7% equity stake and the remote nature of the accelerator program. They also highlight the value of the network and mentors provided by Colosseum. Matty Tay explains the importance of having a
strong idea and a well-structured pitch in order to win a Colosseum hackathon. He also shares tips for creating a compelling submission video. Finally, they discuss their excitement for projects that utilize token extensions and open up new markets in the ecosystem.
Takeaways
The Solana Global Hackathons are structured to drive long-term sustainable startups in the ecosystem.Colosseum was launched as an independent organization to build a product specifically catered to running hackathons.The Colosseum accelerator program and venture fund invest in the top teams from the hackathons.The Solana Foundation aims to enable other organizations in the ecosystem to take over initiatives and build products. Coliseum offers $250K for 7% equity stake in a remote accelerator program.The program provides access to a network of mentors and connections through the Solana Foundation.Winning a Coliseum hackathon requires a strong idea, a well-structured pitch, and a demo that showcases the chosen features.Submission videos should be concise, under three minutes, and include team background, product description, market potential, traction, and a demo.Find Matty and Colosseum online
Follow Matty on twitter - @mattytayVisit the Colosseum website - colosseum.org
Follow us around

Nick
twitter: @nickfrostygithub: github.com/nickfrostywebsite: https://nick.afJames
twitter: @jamesrp13github: github.com/jamesrp13Solfate Podcast
twitter: @SolfatePodmore podcast episodes: solfate.com/podcast

A conversation with Toly, the co-founder of Solana Labs and the Solana blockchain.

Full show notes: solfate.com/podcast/47
PS: Checkout the Snapshot newsletter: a byte-sized email newsletter filled with the biggest updates from Solana ecosystem teams and builders. ~5 minute read. Every 2 weeks. 👉 https://solfate.com/snapshot
Notes from the show
In this conversation, Toly discusses various topics about Solana and his personal experiences. The main themes covered include the next technical hurdle for Solana with asynchronous execution, balancing family and work, growing up in the post-Soviet Union, Toly's stress-seeking, the emotional impact of Solana's journey, working relationship with Raj, the importance of marketing and community, career vs. personal pursuits, and so much more.
Takeaways
Solana's next technical hurdle is asynchronous execution.Balancing family and work is a personal challenge for founders.Growing up in the post-Soviet Union has influenced Toly's perspective.Stress-seeking activities can foster team building and camaraderie.Find Toly and Solana online
Follow Toly on twitter - @aeyakovenkoVisit the Solana Lab's website - solanalabs.com
Follow us around

Nick
twitter: @nickfrostygithub: github.com/nickfrostywebsite: https://nick.afJames
twitter: @jamesrp13github: github.com/jamesrp13Solfate Podcast
twitter: @SolfatePodmore podcast episodes: solfate.com/podcast